Having a dog that you love more than yourself definitely has its challenges. You spend almost every minute of your free time snuggled up to a furry angel that thinks that you’re the whole world. Leaving them behind doesn’t even sound like a real thing, but unfortunately, it’s going to happen if you’re headed off to college. Here is how to deal with the unbearable separation anxiety that’s soon to come.
Make your dog a Skype account.
Isn’t technology amazing? We’re able to communicate in ways that we would have never thought possible years ago. I don’t think Steve Jobs would argue that this gift isn’t intended solely for humans, so make your dog a Skype account. This video messaging site is a great way to see your puppy’s beautiful face while simultaneously engaging in conversation. If you’re not a fan of this idea, then be pen pals with them or something. (Side note: Don’t try using “raise_the_woof” as a username - it’s already taken.)
Wear their collar around campus.
Keeping something that belongs to someone you love proves to be very good comfort. I don’t think your dog would mind if you were to “borrow” their only article of clothing in order to cope with their absence. Since chokers are in these days, people are sure to overlook your outlandish fashion statement and you can mourn in peace. It’s also a great way to get returned back home if you ever get lost somewhere.
Get a pet fish.
Like they say, fish are a man’s second-best friend. Having a pet fish is the best alternative to having your dog around. Teach it to sit and shake hands exactly like your dog. Although you can’t sleep with your fish at night, you can keep one hand in the bowl so that you’re making some sort of contact. It’s basically the same thing, but wetter.
Enroll your dog in college.
If your dog is a college student, they’re out there learning new things and not sitting at home wondering if you’re ever coming back. You can both talk about the college experience when you meet up and will have more things in common than you already do. Just don’t get jealous when your dog gets accepted to a better school than you!
Just don’t go to college.
If you really think about it, going to college in order to better your future is quite a selfish thing to do. Perhaps staying home with your dog is the best idea so that being separated for months on end is never an issue. Education can always wait, whereas a dog really has no sense of time. The look of excitement your dog has when you wake up every morning is way more satisfying than any degree you could earn.
Okay, maybe putting college on hold for your dog is a bad idea. In all seriousness, being away from a beloved pet can be just as painful as squeezing lemon in your eye. It may hurt, but I’m sure if your dog could understand this sacrifice, they’d be very proud of what you’re doing. Visiting your dog (and other family members, I guess) throughout the school year is the best way to not miss them as much. Being away at college will make you cherish the time you have with your furry friend and will help you realize that every moment should count.
